Laurence Lee

February 5, 2023 in Supplements

Smart drugs, also known as nootropics, are compounds or supplements that boost cognitive performance. Often, they function by increasing mental capacities like memory, creativity, stimulation, and focus.

The best brain-boosting nootropic supplements appear to work, as evidenced by research confirming nootropic benefits for improved cognitive performance and overall brain health. The brain-beneficial mechanisms of how some nootropics works are well-established, but their effects are unclear. However, the best nootropic supplements perform because human research shows their long-term benefits for memory, creativity, and concentration, among other things.

As a result, nootropics have become increasingly popular in a competitive society. This guide delves into the benefits and ingredients of the best nootropics and how they work.

Best Nootropics For Focus

1

NooCube

Strongest Nootropics Stack

2

Mind Lab Pro

Best for anxiety and brain fog

3

Alpha Brain

Best for memory and focus

4

Thesis

Best tailored nootropic

5

Centra peak

Best for 40+ men

NooCube

NooCube is a supplement that boosts brain productivity. It was developed in 2016 and has since assisted over 124,000 people worldwide in enhancing their brain function.

The manufacturer of this potent brain enhancer is Wolfson Brands Ltd. They manufacture quality supplements in FDA-approved centers.

NooCube stimulates the mind, cognitive quickness, memory, and overall performance. Because it contains numerous substances that enhance cerebral circulation, Noocube is the finest nootropic for focus. When your vessels are healthy, you will notice that your memory, concentration, and mental alertness are all improved.

How Does NooCube Work?

Noocube, when taken twice a day, can help boost your brain health by minimizing the impact of free radicals, stress, and exhaustion. Some of the chemicals in Noocube are known to have anti-Alzheimer's and anti-dementia properties. Noocube might be the brain supplement you have been looking for if you want to improve cognitive performance and mental speed.

Benefits of taking NooCube

  • Concentration and focus improved: NooCube effectively boosts neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine and dopamine in the brain. Both of these biochemicals enhance mental focus and concentration. You can stay focused on a task and avoid distractions when using NooCube.
  • Enhanced Memory, Learning, and Logical Reasoning: Neurotransmitters inside the brain serve an essential role in developing memories and learning new activities. NooCube promotes neurotransmitter synthesis. Consequently, NooCube definitely enhances recall, learning, and thinking abilities. NooCube also guards against free radicals, beta-amyloid plaques, and inflammation in the brain.
  • Superior Creative thinking: The alpha wave is the brain wave responsible for creative thinking. When we're relaxed and processing minimal information, our brain naturally produces alpha waves. NooCube increases the number of alpha waves produced. This keeps your creative energies going all through the day.
  • Elevated Mood and Inspiration: Our moods and motivation are influenced by biochemicals in the brain by dopamine and serotonin. NooCube promotes and controls the production of these chemicals. You'll remain motivated and in a good mood.
  • Improved Cognitive Energy: Some NooCube ingredients boost blood flow to the brain. Blood provides the brain with all of the required supplies for energy. Therefore, using NooCube promotes brain activity throughout your day.

What Are The Ingredients In Noocube?

Noocube includes pure, potent, non-GMO substances that have been extensively evaluated by prominent neuroscientists to safely and efficiently improve brain function.

Alpha GPC: Alpha GPC increases the production of key neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and dopamine in the brain by releasing choline. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that facilitates learning. It is essential for memory, learning, attention, focus, motivation, and alertness.

Dopamine also helps the brain by improving, attention, motivation, and temperament. It is well known that Alpha GPC can boost cognitive performance. It is thought to be a helpful treatment for neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer's.

Straw Oats: Oat straw, which comes from wild green oats and has been used as a brain stimulant for ages, is often related to treating skin problems.

According to certain studies, oat straw boosts alpha-2 waves in the brain, which improves blood flow to the brain. Alpha-2 waves make you feel more focused and attentive.

Cat’s Claw: Uncaria tomentosa, popularly known as Cat's Claw, is believed to be an antioxidant that guards the brain against free radical damage.

Cat's claw has also been shown to help reduce brain plaque, enhance memory, clarity of mind, and concentration.

Monnieri Bacopa: Bacopa monnieri is an Indian herb that includes bacosides, which are chemicals that may support the repair of impaired neurons and the development of new cells.

This improves cognitive function and treats memory and anxiety disorders.

Pros and Cons

PROS
  • Beneficial in enhancing cognitive abilities.
  • Organic components that are clinically proven to be effective.
  • A powerful combination of the most effective brain-boosting ingredients.
  • There is no caffeine or genetically altered organisms.
  • It improves one's mood and relieves stress.
CONS
  • Unless purchased in bulk, it is expensive.
  • Exclusively available only on the official website.

MindLab Pro

Out of the thousands of nootropics on the market, Mind Lab Pro is undoubtedly one of the best over-the-counter smart pills.

Unlike any other natural nootropic, Mind Lab Pro uses clinically tested substances to promote a substantial gain in cognition.

Mind Lab Pro, according to the manufacturer Opti-Nutra and as reported by AP News, was designed to improve memory, ability to focus, and other cognitive processes. It was also designed for protecting the brain from stress and damages from the aging process and contaminants.

Opti-Nutra, unlike other nootropics, did not just manufacture an organic nootropic. They were looking for a nootropic that will maximize twice the number of brain functions and processes as feasible.

How Does Mind Lab Pro Work?

Mind Lab Pro has 11 nootropics working in 6 bio-pathways to enhance a variety of cognitive functions – for whole-life mental performance – Mind Lab Pro satisfies the brain's complex needs. It's created to promote both short-term mental function and long-term brain health as a whole or universal nootropic.

  • Cerebral Chemicals: Leads to faster synaptic interconnection, that improves cognition and critical reasoning, as well as your feelings and inspiration.
  • Mental power: Maintains nourishment supply to the brain. With that said, decreasing daily stress and exhaustion while enhancing mental focus.
  • Mental power: Maintains nourishment supply to the brain. Furthermore, decreasing daily stress and exhaustion while enhancing mental focus. Improves flexibility and positive growth by assisting in the restoration and repair of damaged brain cells caused by oxidative stress.
  • Cerebral flow: Supports the oxygen levels of the brain, ensuring optimal nutrient supply while also eliminating toxins and microorganisms.
  • Cognitive defense: Protects from structural changes in the brain that cause it to decline as we age.
  • Brainwave patterns: Promotes the creation of brain chemicals that stimulates effective learning.
  • Feedback: Many consumers noticed an increase in alertness and concentration within hours of taking their first dose of Mind Lab Pro. Mind Lab Pro increases memory recall and retention.

Benefits of taking Mind Lab Pro

The supplement integrates nootropics, which helps a variety of mental and cognitive functions, with enhanced formulations and dose ranges similar to those found in medications. As a result, it maximizes as many brain functions and pathways as possible to improve your mental performance.

  • Focus is sharpened.
  • Increases mental acuity
  • It aids memory.
  • Inspiration
  • Concentration
  • Elevates the mood
  • Harmonizes the mind
  • Promotes creativity and innovation

What Are The Ingredients In Mind Lab Pro?

Citicoline (as Cognizin), 250 mg: Citicoline is a naturally occurring brain neurotransmitter. The substance was used as a prescription medicine to help stroke survivors rehabilitate their memory, reasoning, and cognitive ability.

It's a nutritional supplement to help with brain renewal, energy, memory, and other cognitive processes.

Phosphatidylserine (PS), 100mg (as Sharp-PS Green): PS (phosphotidylserine) is essential for numerous bodily functions, particularly in the brain. Sharp-PS Green is a trademarked Mind Lab Pro ingredient. It is premium, soy-free, and eco-friendly PS produced from sunflower lecithin.

Lion's Mane Mushroom, Organic 500mg: Lion's mane mushroom is a full spectrum extract that comprises the mushroom's organic compounds.

Bacopa Monnieri 150mg (24% Bacosides With 9 Bioactives): An active chemical plant extract that supports retention of new information. It increases brain chemical reactions and blood flow.

Rhodiola Rosea, 50mg (3% Rosavins1% Salidrosides): Rhodiola Rosea is a plant root that has been used in traditional medicine as an adaptogen. A nootropic pill that enhances mental and physical performance under pressure.

N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, 175mg: Tyrosine is an amino acid that helps neurotransmitters, often known as the body's chemical messengers, use substances.

Marine Pine Bark Extract 75mg (95% Proanthocyanidins): Marine pine bark extract boosts brain blood flow while also providing antioxidant assistance.

Suntheanine L-Theanine 100mg: Tea and some mushrooms contain this amino acid. It's a nootropic pill that increases alpha brain waves.

NutriGenesis B6, B9, B12, 2.5mg, 100mcg, 7.5mcg: Patented version of essential vitamins B6, B9, and B12. Nutragenesis is beneficial to blood flow, even during focused thought and mental activity. Also, it is special for overall brain health.

Pros and Cons

PROS
  • Wholesome Nootropic supplement, universal based.
  • There are 11 quality, organic, natural ingredients in this product.
  • There are no allergens, GMOs, gluten, caffeine, artificial flavors, and colors, preservatives, or banned ingredients in this product, and it has not been subjected to radiation.
CONS
  • For some people, it may be too overpriced.
  • Exclusively offered for purchase on the company's website only.
  • Shipping and customer service concerns have been a source of customer dissatisfaction.

Alpha Brain

Alpha Brain may be a fantastic choice if you are searching for a high-quality nootropic.

Alpha Brain is a combination of ingredients. 

It promotes cognitive performance, improves focus, memory, and mental processing.

How Does Alpha Brain Work?

In a study of healthy adults aged 18-35, using Alpha BRAIN for six weeks significantly enhanced recent speech recall and executive function. The findings of this trial call for more research into the use of cognitive-enhancing substances in athletic performance.

Adults should take two capsules daily as a dietary supplement, ideally with a small meal. If you are pregnant, nursing, have or fear a medical problem, or are on any drugs, talk to your doctor before taking this or any other nutritional supplement. Preserve in a cool, dry area.

Benefits of taking Alpha Brain

  • Alpha Brain improves and supports memory, promotes focus
  • Alpha Brain promotes body repair, improve mental performance, helps flow state

What Are The Ingredients In Alpha Brain?

Alpha Brain is a natural pill. It comprises clinically tested nootropic elements commonly found in nature. The components are derived from plant extracts. The ingredients include many of the chemicals found in the previously mentioned smart pills such as:

L Theanine and L Tyrosine: As mentioned earlier these are vital amino acids that help you stay focused and metacognitive while also decreasing caffeine's effects.

Phosphatidylserine: Keeps our memory clear and helps the brain store detailed information.

Oat Straw Extract: This decreases stress and anxiety while also increasing Alpha Brain's flow blend.

Cat’s Claw Extract (AC-11):  350 mg. A proprietary extract of the Uncaria Tomentosa, that facilitates DNA repair.

Alpha GPC: Aids in the production of acetylcholine to improve executive function, for better learning and processing.

Huperzia Serrata: This component helps to treat memory loss by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine.

Pros and Cons

PROS
  • Enhanced cognitive sharpness and disposition.
  • Better mental processes as a result of less stress.
  • You will experience reduced mental tiredness.
CONS
  • There were a few substances that we didn't think were significantly advantageous.
  • Doesn't have a complete vitamin regimen.

Thesis

The thesis combines beneficial mushrooms, choline, vitamins, and adaptogens in a novel way.

They also have special formulations of particular nootropics based on your specific needs, such as anxiety and brain fog. Thesis is available for purchase on their website and is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How Does Thesis Work?

Thesis Nootropics are customized supplements formulated to boost your brain performance Thesis has worked with over 5 million users and possesses the world's largest nootropics data set. Thesis compares you to this dataset to pair you with the blends that have the best chance of accomplishing your goals. With over 6,000 five-star evaluations, the product speaks for itself.

To begin, you'll share information about your biological data, daily routines, general behavioral patterns and mood, alcohol and drug usage, and cognitive and performance goals on Thesis' website. After receiving your basic information, you'll be sent to a Starter Kit, which includes four blend recommendations.

When you get your first box, you'll test the formulas one at a time, taking note of your results in a journal that comes with it. You'll have to submit feedback on your blends and refine your order before your next box by the end of the first month.

Benefits of taking Thesis

Nootropics aren't multipurpose and for everyone, so be sure the blends you're taking are suited to your brain chemistry and goals. The key to finding nootropics that work for you is to obtain high-quality ingredients and try varying amounts and dosages. However, this would be a time-consuming and costly procedure.

Try Thesis if you would not want to spend time and want the best health outcomes as quickly as possible. Thesis creates personalized nootropic tablets that enhance focus, creativity, insight, and drive.

What Are The Ingredients In Thesis?

Ashwagandha: It is derived from the Ashwagandha root and helps to manage stress levels in the body. Memory, attentiveness, and neuroprotection are all enhanced by Ashwagandha.

Ginseng: Found in GS15-4 Ginseng increases acetylcholine. It is essential for learning and memory formation and is found in Eastern Russia, Northeast China, and the Korean Peninsula. It also promotes stress adaptation, boosts cellular energy generation, and maintains a stronger immune system.

Zembrin: Zembrin, which is found in the South African plant Sceletium Tortuosum, has been demonstrated to boost mood, calmness, stress response, and memory formation.

Theacrine: Theacrine is a compound found in a plant related to the cacao tree and Chinese tea that promotes good cognition, motivation, and vitality.

Lion’s Mane: Lion's Mane mushrooms can be found in the United States and Canada. As learnt earlier, they have been shown to improve cognitive performance.

Pros and Cons

PROS
  • Thesis personalizes your blends so you don't waste money on things your brain doesn't want.
  • Their staff of nootropics coaches provides personal guidance and mentoring.
  • To fully zero in on which aspects work best for your brain, choose from five alternative formulas: Motivation, Creativity, Logic, Energy, and Clarity.
  • There are no proprietary blends. Thesis clearly states not just which ingredients are used, but also how much of each ingredient is used. Furthermore, Thesis is intentionally exposing themselves to the danger that clients may buy individual chemicals in bulk and dose them themselves to save money.
  • Choose between caffeinated or caffeine-free formulations. They don't merely pack their supplements up with caffeine to hoodwink you into imagining your brain is performing better.
CONS
  • Thesis fulfills its promise of improved mental function. There is no free trial available. However, they do give a full refund with no questions asked.
  • The cost of the product. Even with the Subscribe & Save option, you'll be paying $80 every month. As a result, they're one of the more expensive nootropics on the market.
  • As a result, they're one of the more expensive nootropics on the market. Two things to keep in mind.

Centra Peak

Centra Peak is a dietary supplement that promotes male vitality, testosterone, and mental clarity.

Men can support physical and mental strength, testosterone, cognitive wellness, and more by taking three Centra Peak capsules daily.

Each 100mg serving of Rhodiola Rosea in Centra Peak is said to help with physical endurance, muscle damage after a  workout, and overall exhaustion in stressful conditions, as well as promote well-being and emotional state.

Benefits of taking Centra Peak

  • Stress Management: Stress is reduced when cortisol levels are low.
  • Enhanced Vitality: Provides an optimistic attitude which is essential for innovation and creativity.
  • Improved Mood: helps you make progress and feel better.

What Are The Ingredients In Centra Peak?

Vitamin D3: Centrapeak contains 82.5 mg of cholecalciferol, a strong and highly absorbed form of Vitamin D3 known as the "sunshine vitamin." Vitamin D has been shown to promote total testosterone levels, sports performance and muscle recovery, bone health, immunity, and a slew of other benefits.

Vitamin B6: Centrapeak's 10 mg of Vitamin B6 as Pyridoxine HCL may help improve testosterone levels by lowering estrogen, a "female hormone" that inhibits testosterone production. Triggers the development of androgens, which induce the release of testosterone. Prolactin inhibition is an amino acid that can cause reduced testosterone production.

Zinc: In addition to increasing Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and testosterone synthesis, zinc has been shown to enhance Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Human Growth Hormone (HGH), and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), the three hormones that foster male vitality.

Magnesium: Centrapeak contains 50 mg of magnesium citrate, a type of magnesium that is considerably more bioavailable and efficient than magnesium oxide, which is often seen in testosterone boosters and other comparable products.

Vitamin K2: (menaquinone) has been included in the modified product blend (45 mcg) since research suggests that vitamin K2 and vitamin D3 act together to boost natural testosterone synthesis and release.

Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C): Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is a naturally occurring compound found in green leafy vegetables such as kale and broccoli. Indole-3-Carbinol (200 mg) is another essential Centrapeak ingredient. It is an excellent female hormone estrogen inhibitor.

Ashwagandha: It is derived from the Ashwagandha root and helps to manage stress levels in the body. Memory, attentiveness, and neuroprotection are all enhanced by Ashwagandha.

Mucuna Pruriens: Mucuna Pruriens, also known as velvet bean, is an Ayurvedic medicine that has been proven to boost the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, resulting in good physical and cognitive effects.

Korean Panax Ginseng: Centrapeak's 100 mg of potent Korean Panax Ginseng is good for both the body and the mind.

Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola Rosea is a plant that acts as an adaptogen. It aids in the adaptation to and relief of stress, as well as the improvement of mood and the reduction of weariness.

PS (Phosphatidylserine): Centrapeak recently changed the product mix in response to customer requests for components with rapid favorable effects. As a result, it served as a stand-in for Lion's Mane.

Luteolin: Another research-backed component shown to suppress the aromatase enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen is luteolin, which is included in the new supplement recipe. It supports a healthy estrogen-to-testosterone ratio as an antioxidant.

Pros and Cons

PROS
  • Ingredients that are all-natural, organic, bioavailable, and validated by research for men in their 30s. It is safe and to be used in optimal doses.
  • GMP-certified and made in an FDA-approved facility.
  • Increases self-esteem and concentration by enhancing testosterone, libido, and mental performance.
  • Cortisol and other stress chemicals are claimed to be reduced.
  • GMO-free, gluten-free, soy-free, preservative-free, and free of any other harmful or artificial ingredients.
  • Vegans and vegetarians alike will like this supplement.
CONS
  • There is a big price tag attached to this item like any other similar premium product.
  • There aren't many user reviews currently.

Our Take Away

Natural, synthetic, and prescription nootropics and smart drugs are chemicals that improve cognitive health. The efficacy of prescription smart drugs on memory and attention is the strongest and most significant. Synthetic nootropic pills are widely accessible, however, there is little evidence of their benefit in healthy adults.

Alternative medicine uses a variety of natural nootropics, although their effects are often more complex and slower to manifest. They're sometimes taken together to increase their potency. In today's world, the usage of nootropics and smart drugs is on the upswing, but much more analysis is needed to fully comprehend their merits.

FAQs

What is a natural nootropic?

Simply stated, natural nootropics are compounds or nutrients that have a positive effect on brain function. Though they've become a catchphrase in the health and fitness field in recent years. They've been used in Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic therapy for centuries.

What are synthetic nootropics?

There are two types of nootropics: synthetic nootropics are lab-created compounds like Piracetam. Whereas, renowned organic and herbal nootropics like Ginkgo biloba and American Ginseng are natural. Natural nootropics have been shown to improve brain function and wellness.

Is it safe to take nootropics?

If you understand the hazards and how to prevent them, nootropics are perfectly safe. There's always the possibility of unanticipated negative effects. To avoid them, start with tiny doses and do your research in advance.

Do nootropics have any effect?

A few research suggest that nootropic drugs can influence the brain. However, evidence is scarce from big, supervised research showing that some of these supplements continuously function and are fully safe.

How much time will it take for nootropics to work?

Nootropics can stimulate the growth of nerve cell branching. According to experts, this process takes time; prepare to allow time of 4-6 weeks for outcomes.

Can I take nootropics daily?

A few nootropics can be used every day without side effects, and most users do not build a tolerance. Other nootropics, may lose their potency over time if the dosage is not boosted regularly.

Is it true that nootropics are addictive?

Another point to make about smart drugs like nootropics is that many people grow dependent on them without even knowing it. This fact that they can be incredibly addicting, makes them quite enticing to anyone wanting to exploit another individual.

How long do nootropics keep you awake?

The effects can last up to 12 hours depending on the dose and type of pill administered. It's crucial to keep in mind that some medications have drawbacks.

About the author 

Laurence Lee

Lee is a neuroscientist who has dedicated his career to understanding the inner workings of the brain. He has seen firsthand the power of these supplements in improving cognitive function and believes that more people should be aware of their benefits. In his articles, Lee shares his extensive knowledge on the subject and provides unbiased reviews of different products.

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